Liver: Structure and Function

developmental sequences new types of abnormality, either hitherto un-described or published merely as rare and unexplained findings, can be understood and traced to their embryological sources." The discussion of anomalies is in terms of aberrant growth and disturbances of the growth sequence per se. Thus, although the preface states that "The ultimate cause of these slight local changes of growth rate may be chemical or hormonal or thermal," there is no substantiation to be found in the body of the text. Despite this absence of primum mobile, the secondary and tertiary spheres of influence (clinical, physiological, etc.) of the anomalies are represented in factual, speculative, and sometimes anecdotal discussion. Much is of diagnostic importance. In some instances, e.g. that of traction diverticula of the trachea (which Bremer considers to be formed in a manner similar to the formation of a tracheo-oesophageal fistula), a groundwork is laid for possible re-evaluation of common pathological teaching. Outside the scope of this book are tables and analyses of prevalence and incidence of the various anomalies; nor is there any discussion of medical or surgical prognosis and care or of longevity. The chapter listing is as fol-It is appropriate that Hans Popper should be the author of a textbook on the liver. Formerly a protege of Eppinger of Vienna, who systematized hepatic diseases by clinico-pathological correlations, Dr. Popper has collaborated with his co-author and has approached the problem of hepatic diseases fundamentally from a pathophysiological point of view. The book is a complete and well-written encyclopedia of hepatic anatomy, physiology, and pathology. That it is detailed is demonstrated by 3,735 bibliographical references exclusive of an addendum, 62 tables, and 204 well-executed figures. It is obvious that this book not only completely covers the pertinent literature but is the result of the author's unusual experience and tireless efforts. The title of the book does not do justice to its contents because it connotes a restricted topic. The physician may be amazed to find in the text abundant clinical data. The book has been divided into seven parts. The first concerns the structure and functions of the normal liver. This thorough review must be understood before reading the remaining sections. Emphasis is placed, in particular, upon the revised structural concept, metabolic functions, and correlation of functional and histological features of the liver. Part two contains a discussion of the pathological phenomena in the hepato-biliary sys-630